We have had some sad news from the UK, regarding one of our stalwarts from HBO's GAME OF THRONES.

I will let the press release speak for itself:

"WILKO JOHNSON – IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

I am very sad to announce that Wilko has recently been diagnosed with terminalcancer of the pancreas. He has chosen not to receive any chemotherapy.

He is currently in good spirits, is not yet suffering any physical effects andcan expect to enjoy at least another few months of reasonable health andactivity.

He has just set off on a trip to Japan; on his return we plan to complete a newCD, make a short tour of France, then give a series of farewell gigs in the UK.There is also a live DVD in the pipeline, filmed on the last UK tour.

Wilko wishes to offer his sincere thanks for all the support he has had over hislong career, from those who have worked with him to, above all, those devotedfans and admirers who have attendedhis live gigs, bought his recordings and generally made his life such anextraordinarily full and eventful experience.

Thank you.

Robert Hoy(Manager)"

(GRRM back). I never had the chance to meet Wilko Johnson during any of my visits to the set, but I certainly liked what he has been doing in the role of our silent headsman, Ser Ilyn Payne. He will be missed.

About a dozen people have sent me that press release above, by the way. (The story appeared in the GUARDIAN and other UK newspapers). Many of them want to know if the part of Ser Ilyn will be recast. I'm sorry, but I have no answer. At this juncture, it would premature even to discuss the issue, I think. Anyway, no one has discussed it with me, nor would I expect them to.

Thanks for the good work, Wilko... and for all the joy your music gave your fans. You'll leave the world a richer place than you found it, and more than that cannot be asked of any man.